Water Gel Jumbo Bag - Slush Powder at Steve Spangler Science

As Seen on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and the 4-H 2008 National Youth Science Day

Just add a scoop of "slush powder" to a glass of water and watch the liquid turn into a solid... instantly! The chemical name for Water Gel - Slush Powder is sodium polyacrylate, or Hydrogel, and it absorbs from 800 to 1000 times its weight in water. How does it work? It's actually the secret ingredient that's used to absorb "liquid" in baby diapers! Includes a science activity guide with lots of fun polymer tricks to play on your friends! Ages 6 and up.

What's included?

454 grams (1 Pound) of Water Gel powder
Activity guide
Measuring scoop

How does it work?

When you add water to this superabsorbent polymer, it instantly turns from a liquid to a slushy solid.

What does it teach?

Water Gel at work in the world is a superabsorbent polymer, or Hydrogel, that's used as super-effective way to hold liquid in baby diapers. Superabsorbent polymers in their crystalline form, are used to help farmers retain water in their soil in times of drought. Learn how polymers are used to lessen the effect of environmental disasters on animal and human life.

Product FAQ

How many portions will this make?
Each portion is one blue scoop, which measures to about 3 grams. There are about 200 portions in the bag.

Can I reuse it?
Yes, after you are done with your experiments, spread the polymer into a thin sheet to let the water evaporate. In about 2 weeks the powder will be back to its original powder form.

Is it like Insta-Snow?
The polymers are very similar, but the molecules are linked slightly differently, which is why they react differently with water.

What activities can I do with this?
Water gel is a perfect way to demonstrate how polymers work. The gel can help illustrate how farmers can save their crops in times of drought and what kind of material is in a baby diaper!.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Most teachers are required to obtain an MSDS on every chemical in their classroom. Without proper training, however, MSDS information can be quite intimidating and could possibly lead a person to the wrong conclusion about the safety of a product. For example, would you consider water to be a safe chemical? Sure it's safe... it's water! But try reading the MSDS on water and you might be surprised. "FIRST AID: Call a physician, seek medical attention for further treatment, observation and support after first aid. Inhalation: Remove to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped give artificial respiration immediately." Sounds frightening... and it's just water! If you request an MSDS on any product, make sure you understand what you're reading beforejumping to any conclusions. Any chemical can pose safety concerns (yes, even water). The best advice we can give parents, teachers or any adult supervisor is to read and follow the directions carefully. Look for phrases like "non-hazardous" or "not expected to be a health risk". If you have any questions, pick up the phone and call. Most importantly, if an accident happens, seek help immediately.

Download the MSDS Safety Information for Water Jelly Crystals >

Kids never get tired of this!

Jenny Brown - August 20, 2010

This user gave 5/5 stars

We use this in Children's Church all the time. The kids love it - they think we are amazing. Little do they know.... I love that there is enough in the jar to do this trick so many times I've lost count.